Search and Rescue Training - Page 1

My husband and I have a 14 week old female German Shepherd puppy and we are highly interested in training her for search and rescue. We are working with her and basic obedience now. My husband is a Military Working Dog handler so we work with her on those commands. Just wonder if anyone new what a good age was to start training her on search and rescue techniques as we know it could be a year or two until she is proficient enough for field work. Thank you. :)

I am thinking the earlier you start the better.  But Slamdunc on this forum can probably steer you in the right direction and get you started properly, or he can suggest someone for you on how and exactly when to get started.  Good luck, she looks really pretty.  Nan

Yes, you can start runaway searches now. You don't want to put too much obedience in just yet, and focus more on socialization, drive building, puppy searches etc... NO compulsion!!!!!! You need to make sure she is socialized with other dogs (not playing with them, but comfortable being around them without going nuts) because many times dogs will be working alongside other dogs.

Melissa

Thank you both so much for the great advice! My husband got in contact with a trainer/breeder that they work with when the MWDs need additional training. He was more than happy to help and is ready to get her started right away! We are actually going this weekend. There will be a dog there running a trial so I am excited to see how she responds to what that dog hopes. She loves other dogs and likes to follow older dogs around so it will interesting to see her reaction. Also, thank you Nan on the compliment....she is absolutely beautiful. 14 weeks old and 18 pounds already and growing by the minute! Excited to see if she keeps her markings. :)

Early is good. Look up your area sar teams and set up a meet with them. Most prefer you training with them in preparation to sar.